Sick Care to Wellbeing - Changes in Healthcare from Past to Future

Through the ups and downs of the COVID-19 pandemic—and generally, a fast-paced and stressful life—physical and mental well-being has become an important tenet of a healthy lifestyle. This was the theme of a very interesting discussion I had with Shayamal Vallabhjee—author, sports scientist, and performance coach—on his podcast Perishable Wisdom last year. Amongst other things, we explored the remarkable physiology of the body—about which I also talk about in my book ‘At The Human Edge’. In today’s newsletter, I want to take this thought forward and share with you the continuously evolving perception of well-being and the different methods of healthcare. How was well-being and longevity perceived in ancient times? How is it different now? And what is the future of medicine and healthcare? So keep scrolling and don’t forget to listen to the fascinating conversation I had with Shayamal here.?

Healthcare In The Past

In ancient times, doctors believed that ailments were caused by Gods, evil spirits, and demons. Patients had to pray and make certain sacrifices to get better and healthy. But we progressed from that notion around the time Hippocrates attributed illnesses to our environment. Soon we began associating the development of disease and mental disorders with an imbalance in the four humors/body fluids (black bile, yellow bile, phlegm, and blood). Side by side, the Romans decided to make the environment more sanitary to prevent the development of disease. This introduced the idea of collective efforts to remain healthy rather than an individualistic approach. In ancient China, in fact, doctors were paid till the time individuals were healthy, as their job was to ensure just that.?

This was the time when healthcare was in its growing stage. Philosophers, doctors, and the likes wanted to understand the human body and how to keep it healthy. Individuals also wanted to learn how to stay healthy, both mentally and physically, rather than prevent disease. There was an individual and a social effort to attain peak states of health and well-being.

Healthcare Today

“It is ironic that we call sick care healthcare”??

Dr. Marcus Ranney

The present-day healthcare system is more disease focused. Doctors are paid to test, diagnose, and treat diseases. Contrary to ancient times, we seek medical assistance when we are already sick and not to keep us from falling sick. We want cures to chronic diseases which is paradoxical as many of them are due to unhealthy lifestyles we follow. People are made aware of their body and their organs’ function only when doctors give a diagnosis.?

That said, there are a few positive developments in the field of healthcare as well. The human race is taking technology by storm. We are inventing tech for monitoring the various body processes and devices are now more user friendly and convenient to make it a part of our daily routine. These technological advances can help spread awareness about the kind of body processes that can ensure optimal health and allow us to live a long, healthy life. Technology is also one of the reasons why humans can explore extremes—then be it, climbing the highest mountain, going to the depths of the ocean, or even going to outer space. Without adequate knowledge about the environment and how we can prepare our bodies for these extremes, these feats wouldn't have been possible.?

After the pandemic, I have seen a steady rise in the awareness of people in terms of their health and their desire to lead a healthy and long life. There has been an increased focus on mental health and how it can lead to physical complications. People are realizing the fragility of life and how good health is the one way that can help us live longer.?

Slowly and steadily we are taking a U-turn from simply curing diseases to focusing on prevention and longevity. This is a result of people wanting to take their wellness in their own hands.

The Future of Healthcare

We are complex organisms that have evolved over millions of years. And yet, we need more knowledge to understand the miracles of our own bodies and how we can harness their power and push them to the extreme if need be. Technological advances are paving the way to a healthier and longer life for us, and will continue to bring the concept of well-being and good health to the forefront. With time, there will also be more awareness on disease prevention rather than just finding cures.?

I also feel there will be a balance between allopathic medicine and alternative therapies to promote health and longevity. There are merits to both forms of treatment and both should be suggested to give a holistic approach to treat diseases. Alternative medicine systems, such as Ayurveda for example, have been in Indian culture for centuries. By incorporating our traditional views to treat diseases, we can ensure that the medicines manufactured in the future can give human beings a competitive edge in their wellbeing.

The healthcare industry is ever changing. We are moving forward in a direction where healthcare providers of different treatment modalities along with individualized efforts will work in tandem to create avenues for a better, healthier, and longer life.

How Can You Get Started On Your Wellness Journey?

To get started on your journey towards a healthier and longer life, it’s best to speak to a physician. You can book a session with me, and we can chat about how you can begin and the biohacks that can help you be the healthiest version of yourself.?

This newsletter is a part of our ongoing series.